Two men have been charged with a number of offences following a number of stabbing incidents in north Belfast.

It happened in the New Lodge area on Thursday night, close to an unauthorised republican bonfire.

Police were forced to withdraw from the area earlier that day after coming under attack and three officers were injured.

(New Lodge bonfire)

An 18-year-old man was stabbed in the back in the vicinity of the bonfire and taken to hospital, where his condition was described as critical.

Another man who is 39-years-old also sustained stab wounds to his arm and hip.

He also received treatment in hospital but his injuries are not thought to be life threatening at present.

A 21-year-old man has been charged with two counts of grievous bodily harm with intent and two counts of possession of an offensive weapon with intent to commit an indictable offence.

A 28 year old male has been charged with 2 counts of grievous bodily harm with intent, possession of an offensive weapon with intent to commit an indictable offence and possession of an offensive weapon in a public place.

They are both expected to appear before Belfast Magistrates Court this morning, Saturday 10 August.